AXA Insurance launches Hearts in Action in the Gulf

They collected 600 kgs of rubbish and cleaned up approximately 1½ kilometre of land.

In 1991 the AXA Group created the AXA Hearts in Action association for staff members who wanted to volunteer their free time to help the less fortunate or focus on an environmental concern. The aim was to create a program based on simple principles of solidarity, help and sharing. Thus AXA Hearts in Action was launched and has been engaging volunteers to take part in several initiatives tied to prevention, education and preservation, therefore endorsing AXA's values and commitment to its corporate philosophy of social and cultural philanthropy.

"The AXA Hearts in Action Gulf initiative is a region wide one that will focus on an environmental concern. The aim is to unify employees who have different religions and cultures in a common interest that connects them all - that of philanthropy. I am happy to say that we received a huge response from the staff even though they had to come in on a Friday and I assure you that there we will be doing a lot more towards the environment and the community in future." says Andrea Rossi, AXA Gulf CEO.

Engr. Hamdan Al Shaer, Director of the Environment Department says,

"There is a crucial need to preserve the natural haven of Ras Al Khor. It is threatened by inorganic waste such as plastic that does not assimilate into the environment and is not biodegradable. We welcome it when companies come to us saying they would like to clean up a public area or would like to be part of an environmental cause. I hope this will encourage more companies to come forward and be a part of sustainable development in the UAE."

Ras Al Khor's mangrove, locally know as 'Gurm' is a harmonious combination of terrestrial and aquatic environments that maintain ecological stability. It is a breeding ground for various species, such as birds, crustaceans, fish and insects.

The animal community plays an important role in recycling nutrients maintaining food chains as well as the overall enhancement of the soil and the aquatic environment, to name just a few.

Employees were tramping around accompanied by their partners and friends filling up garbage bags with waste and at the same time marvelling at the topography of the area.